The best traffic-free bike rides around Criel-Sur-Mer

This guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Criel-sur-Mer. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, allowing you to explore the stunning coastal and inland landscapes away from vehicle traffic.

The terrain around Criel-sur-Mer is diverse, ranging from the dramatic chalk cliffs and 'valleuses' (natural valleys) along the coast to the verdant Yères Valley inland. You'll encounter unpaved segments, wooded slopes, and paths through wetlands and meadows. The Alabaster Coast is known for its significant elevation changes, so be prepared for climbs and descents, characteristic of gravel biking in this region.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult due to the varied terrain and elevation, the region offers many quiet paths suitable for families looking for less strenuous rides. For a scenic, traffic-free experience, consider exploring sections of the Yères Valley, which provides flatter, off-road sections away from main roads. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and distance before heading out with family.

Many natural areas and trails around Criel-sur-Mer are dog-friendly, especially those away from crowded areas. However, it's always best to check local regulations for specific trails, particularly in protected areas like the Natura 2000 classified Yères Valley. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash where required, especially near wildlife or livestock.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Criel-sur-Mer, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, but the coastal breeze often provides relief. Winter riding is possible, but be mindful of potentially muddy conditions on unpaved trails and shorter daylight hours. The dramatic coastal views are stunning year-round.

Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Saint-Aubin Church – Le Tréport Funicular loop from Criel-sur-Mer is a moderate 26 km loop that offers diverse scenery without needing a return trip arrangement.

The trails offer breathtaking views of the La Cise Cliff and the iconic white chalk cliffs of the Alabaster Coast. You can also explore the serene Yères Valley, a Natura 2000 area rich in biodiversity. Some routes pass by picturesque spots like Mesnil-Val Beach or offer panoramic views from points like Viewpoint overlooking the cliffs of Le Tréport.

Criel-sur-Mer has limited direct public transport options for reaching specific trailheads. However, you can often reach nearby towns like Le Tréport or Dieppe by train or bus, and then cycle to Criel-sur-Mer or the start of a route. Always check local bus and train schedules for bicycle carriage policies, as these can vary.

Parking is generally available in Criel-sur-Mer, particularly near the town center or coastal areas. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local maps or komoot route details for designated parking areas. Many routes start from accessible points within or just outside the main village.

The komoot community rates the routes around Criel-sur-Mer highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the quiet and varied terrain of the inland trails, and the feeling of escaping traffic. The unique 'valleuses' and the challenging climbs with rewarding views are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects of gravel biking here.

While the no-traffic routes themselves might not have frequent refreshment stops, Criel-sur-Mer and nearby towns like Le Tréport and Mers-les-Bains offer various cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. Planning your route to pass through these towns or carrying sufficient supplies is recommended, especially on longer rides like the Eastern end of Falaises d'Albâtre loop.

A 'valleuse' is a unique natural depression or small valley in the chalk cliffs of the Alabaster Coast, often providing natural access to the sea. You will likely encounter these features on coastal routes, as they are characteristic of the region's dramatic landscape. They can involve steep descents and climbs, adding to the gravel biking challenge and scenic beauty. You can learn more about them on Wikipedia.